TCL PlayCube Portable Projector Review

The TCL PlayCube delivers good brightness and excellent image and sound quality in a compact, stylish enclosure. The PlayCube utilizes a 0.33-inch DMD chip to deliver 1080P on-screen resolution. This chip is noticeably larger than the 0.23-inch chips normally utilized in small portable projectors. The result is more vibrant colors and improved contrast.

The PlayCube is equipped with an Osram RGB LED light source that delivers 750 ISO lumens and reproduces 124% of the Rec. 709 color gamut. While an RGB LED light source can't match an RGB laser light source in brightness, they offer several advantages. RGB LED light sources can reproduce wide color gamuts without laser speckle. Also, compared with most RGB Laser light sources, a tri-color LED light source is more compact and power-efficient, making it a better option for a battery-powered projector. The PlayCube can deliver sufficient light output to produce a good-looking image on screens up to 100” under dim lighting or outdoors after sunset.

The lens assembly in the PlayCube is designed around simplicity and consistency. The projector uses a fixed-focal-length lens designed to deliver a sharp image on screens ranging from 30 to 150 inches. The 1.2:1 throw ratio is optimized for small to medium-sized images in typical residential spaces. This allows the PlayCube to project a large image from a relatively short distance, making it suitable for bedrooms and apartments with limited space.

As expected in this class, the PlayCube does not include optical zoom/shift, relying instead on placement and digital adjustments. The projector includes autofocus, and digital zoom is available for scaling the image. Features like automatic keystone correction and intelligent object avoidance make setup straightforward, particularly in temporary or mobile environments.

Sharpness across the image is consistent, aided by electronic focus adjustment. Edge distortion is minimal, and geometric correction tools such as four-point keystone adjustment help maintain a proper rectangular image even when the projector cannot be placed directly in front of the screen.

The TCL PlayCube uses the latest Google TV operating system. This platform provides access to over 10,000 apps, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube TV. Users can browse and play content directly on the projector without an external device, such as a streaming stick or media box. In addition to a wide range of smart features, the PlayCube includes numerous picture adjustments, such as Color Temperature, Gamma, and Multi-point White balance.

Another big benefit of Google TV is that it integrates smart TV features and projector picture settings into a single menu, making the projector feel like a single cohesive device rather than two loosely connected systems.  When streaming apps, inputs, picture modes, HDR settings, keystone, focus, and audio controls all live in the same interface, you are not bouncing between an external dongle menu and a separate projector OSD.  The menu layout was similar to that of other Google TV-equipped projectors, and the operation was smooth and responsive.

When it comes to sound quality, you need to manage your expectations. The PlayCube is quite small, but its 5-watt Dolby audio system delivered good sound quality for its size. The unit plays loud enough to fill a small room. Dialogue reproduction is clear at moderate listening levels. You can choose between four preset audio modes optimized for movies, music, and sports. You even have the option of creating your own customized sound profile.

Music playback is acceptable for background listening and casual use, although the small enclosure restricts low-frequency extension. The PlayCube can also be utilized as a Bluetooth speaker by selecting Bluetooth Speaker Mode in the projector setting menu. For users seeking improved audio performance, the Playcube offers Bluetooth connectivity to pair external speakers or soundbars. The 3.5mm audio output provides additional flexibility for users who prefer a direct connection to powered speakers or headphones.

LED light sources generate less heat than lamps and lasers, allowing TCL to use a smaller, quieter cooling system. To deliver high brightness from such a small chassis, the PlayCube utilizes a heat pipe cooling system.  However, the fan still needs to run at a fairly high speed when using the projector’s maximum light output. TCL rates the noise level at 30dB from 1 meter away. When sitting approximately three to four away, the fan noise is noticeable during quiet passages, but it remains subdued and does not significantly interfere with movie dialogue or casual viewing.